Fast Food May Come With a Side of Pediatric Eczema

Today’s fast-paced world leaves little time for anything, including meals. Fast food is becoming an increasingly common – not to mention fattening – way to quickly tackle hunger. Children are especially drawn to fast food, as it is really cheap and it often includes a toy. Fast food’s rise in popularity has brought forth an alarming increase in childhood obesity. Recent research also suggests a link between fast food and asthma, as well as eczema, a condition in which the skin becomes red, dry and itchy.

Half a Million Kids Studied in Over 50 Countries

The study followed the eating habits of 500,000 children in more than 50 countries. The researchers found that 6 and 7-year-olds who ate 3 or more fast food meals a week were 27 percent more likely to develop asthma, and teenagers who ate the same amount of fast food meals per week were nearly 40 percent more likely to develop asthma. Both age groups were also at an increased risk of developing eczema compared to children that ate healthier foods. What can be done to minimize the occurrence of these conditions?

Slow Down – Healthy Eating is Smart Eating!

The solution is rather obvious: children – and – adults must minimize their consumption of high-fat fast foods. It should be noted, however, that an increasing amount of fast-food establishments now offer salads and other healthy options for people on the go. Regardless of what your local restaurants are offering, eating 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day is ideal for your health. In fact, researchers found that eating just 3 servings of fruits and vegetables each week can lower one’s risk of developing asthma or eczema by as much as 14 percent. Regular exercise is also important for staying healthy – and it can be fun!

Suffering from Eczema? Don’t Just Scratch It – Call Us Today!

The exact cause of eczema is unknown, making its occurrence possible in anyone. If you or your child are suffering from the redness, itching and dryness of eczema, contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss treatment options. At Advanced Dermatology, PC, our board-certified dermatologists are experts at diagnosing and treating eczema and many other skin conditions. Our ten conveniently located offices welcome patients from Queens (Bayside, Flushing), Long Island – Nassau/Suffolk (Roslyn/Albertson, West Islip, Commack, East Setauket), New York City, Westchester County (Ossining), Bergen County, NJ, Union County, NJ, and all surrounding areas.